Lack of follow through and lack of knowledge are among the top reasons why workplace drug-free programs fail, says the U.S. Dept. of Labor’s Working Partners for an Alcohol-and Drug-Free Workplace.

The common pitfalls that can undermine the effectiveness of a drug-free workplace program also include not tying the drug-free program into the company’s safety plan; having a policy on paper, but no one knowing what it says; having reasonable suspicion testing that is not exercised because supervisors are afraid of making the wrong call; testing only for illicit drugs, but ignoring alcohol and prescription drug abuse. DOL emphasizes training and education of both employees and managers as keys to having effective programs.

DOL also offers a web page reporting illicit drug use/dependence, and heavy alcohol abuse/dependence viewable by industry and occupation.